Who's behind the notes? Discover Justin Hurwitz: The Oscar-Winning Composer Behind La La Land
Justin Hurwitz is an American composer and musician best known for his work on film scores, particularly for his collaborations with director Damien Chazelle. One of his most famous compositions is "Mia and Sebastian's Theme" from the 2016 musical film "La La Land." Here are some interesting facts about Justin Hurwitz and the iconic theme:
Collaboration with Damien Chazelle: Justin Hurwitz has a close working relationship with director Damien Chazelle. He has composed music for all of Chazelle's major films, including "Whiplash" (2014) and "La La Land" (2016), both of which earned him Academy Awards.
Academy Award Winner: Hurwitz won two Academy Awards for his work on "La La Land." He received the Oscar for Best Original Score and Best Original Song for "City of Stars," another song from the film.
"Mia and Sebastian's Theme": The theme is a central piece in the "La La Land" soundtrack and is associated with the characters Mia and Sebastian, played by Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling. The theme is a beautiful, nostalgic piano melody that captures the essence of the characters' love story.
Musical Nostalgia: Hurwitz's score for "La La Land" is notable for its homage to classic Hollywood musicals. "Mia and Sebastian's Theme" in particular draws inspiration from the musical styles of the 1940s and 1950s.
Piano Virtuosity: The theme is known for its simple yet emotionally resonant piano melody. It became popular not only for its use in the film but also for its standalone beauty. Many pianists and musicians have covered and performed the theme.
Critical Acclaim: The soundtrack of "La La Land," including "Mia and Sebastian's Theme," received widespread critical acclaim. Hurwitz's work was praised for its ability to evoke the magic and romance of classic musicals while also feeling contemporary.
Impact on Pop Culture: "La La Land" and its music, including the theme, had a significant impact on popular culture. The film's success helped revive interest in the musical genre in mainstream cinema.
Influence on the Film's Narrative: The theme plays a crucial role in the film's narrative, representing the love and dreams of the main characters. Its variations are used at different points in the story, reflecting the ups and downs of Mia and Sebastian's relationship.
"Mia and Sebastian's Theme" is a standout piece in Justin Hurwitz's impressive body of work, contributing to the success and enduring popularity of "La La Land."